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Saleen puts more swank into the Tesla Model S

The Foursixteen improves an already stunning car with across-the-board upgrades

20 August 2014/10:20+08

These guys think they can make a better car than the Tesla Model S?They’re certainly not the first people to get their hands on an already-stellar vehicle and attempt to improve it. In fact, someone else has already modded this very model into a convertible. But yes, the Saleen Foursixteen is a modified version of the Tesla Model S, probably the world’s best-known electric car.

With a swanky bodykit? How very Essex boy…There’s much more to the Foursixteen than exterior tweaks, but we’ll start with those. Saleen, which has been building racing cars for 30-odd years, claims to have improved the Model S’ aerodynamics through its body modifications: there’s a carbon fibre rear diffuser, new V-shaped hood architecture and a rear spoiler to increase downforce. The hood shape also serves to direct hot air away from the car’s drivetrain cooling system.

And what else?Speaking of drivetrain’s, Saleen has ripped out Tesla’s and replaced it with its own, which it says provides improved acceleration (even the base Model S does 0-96kph in 5.4 seconds), better cooling and “track capable throttle response”. There’s also adjustable suspension, which means you can stiffen the ride if you’re doing some track driving, as well as new ZR-spec tyres and optional lightweight carbon ceramic brakes. Changing your mind about this yet?

I agree. Damn, you’ve changed my mind. Now I want oneWell, we hope you’ve just had a big tax rebate, because the Foursixteen ain’t cheap: Saleen are charging US$152,000 (S$190,000) for it. This model is based on the standard Tesla Model S, by the way, and will be delivered to US-based customers 6-8 weeks after ordering. It comes with a four-year/80,500-kilometer warranty.